Hot Kitchen & Bath Trends

The wish-list for kitchen and bath products continues to evolve driven by homeowner wants and, of course, that darn economy. The latest survey says…function & comfort are top-O-list for kitchen & bath remodels. The guru’s at the Research Institute for Cooking & Kitchen Intelligence (RICKI) conducted the survey. Jeepers…sounds like a new branch of the CIA!!!

The fav style choice remains casual or transitional followed by contemporary. Mixing kitchen counter-top materials like granite and stainless or a reclaimed surface is trending. FYI…some of the new recycled materials are marvelous!

Armstrong Cabinets Sage and Vanilla Cream

Armstrong Cabinets finished in Sage & Vanilla Cream

Recycling center from StarMark Cabinetry

Consumers’ kitchen wish-list:

• Islands
• Roll-outs, pull-outs & pull-downs
• Drawers instead of base cabinets
• Energy –efficient appliances
• Mixing materials, surfaces & finishes
• LED lighting
• Recycling areas
• Computer charging station
• Multiple ovens & dishwashers

Kitchen islands in every shape, style & finish!

The ultimate shower with the Brizo RSVP shower collection.

Consumers’ Bath wish-list:

• Furniture style vanities
• His & her vanities
• Super showers
• Customized storage
• Heated floors
• Private toilet areas
• Water-saving fixtures
• Soaking or jetted tubs

Furniture style bathroom vanities are hot! This is from StarMark Cabinetry.

This Star Cabinetry furniture vanity features clean lines and double sinks.

Betcha’ your must-have list includes a couple of these! Stop by a Modern Supply kitchen, bath & lighting showroom and bring your wish-list. We’ll put our creative thinkin’ caps on and design a kitchen or bath that will make you happy, happy, happy! Don’t forget…

Tell ‘em Millie sent you!

Part Visionary, Part Realist

Traits to tackle a major kitchen or bath remodeling project

Homeowners have an abundance of informational sources available for remodeling advice and ideas. The do-it-yourself channels and internet sites make it look easier and faster than it actually is. To tackle a major renovation project, you need to be part visionary and part realist. The visionary sees the potential; the realist sees the time, patience and budget needed!

Lots of countertop work area

The kitchen and bathrooms were high on the remodel list so Steve called his friends at Modern Supply for design and product advice. Debbie Johnson from Modern Supply met with Steve. They discussed how to redesign the existing odd shaped kitchen to be more cook-friendly. Measurements were taken and the designing process began!

The kitchen was reconfigured to maximize space and storage. The cabinetry chosen was from StarMark using the Prescott door style in cherry and finished in toffee with an ebony glaze. The refrigerator and dishwasher are concealed with cabinetry panels for a very polished look. Delta’s Leland faucet in stainless and a Blanco granite sink in biscotti complement the granite countertops. KitchenAid appliances include a refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave along with a BlueStar 36” range.

The master bath was a total remodel replacing a tub with a walk-in shower and adding double vanities. The maple vanities were also from StarMark using the Milan door style finished in toffee. American Standard’s Boulevard above counter sink was paired with Jado’s Pike faucet in chrome as well as the shower system. To complete the room, contemporary silver mirrors and vanity lights were added. A dated bathroom is transformed!

Many more things were done to the house including a new roof, ductwork, two new Rheem heating and air units, updated plumbing and electrical, fireplace, refinishing of the existing hardwood and repainted throughout. After several months of hard work, the project is almost complete with a few details left.

“The yard first attracted me to this house,” Steve says. “Once I walked through it, I had a vision of this house’s potential. With a lot of time and help from my contractor and folks like Modern Supply, I’m seeing the vision turn into reality. This property has transformed from a remodeled house to a home.”

If you have a vision for your home, contact Modern Supply to help turn it into reality. 865.966.4567

Kitchen Storage Solutions

Sometimes it’s the little extras that simplify life and free-up more fun time. Sounds crazy, but adding convenient storage features to existing cabinets—pull-out shelves, drawer organizers and appliance lifts—saves time, maximizes storage, and saves your knees. No more diggin’ through a bottom cabinet. Here a few of my favs!

Blind corner cabinets are the worst organized in the kitchen. You know, they’re the cave-like cabinet where you store the juicer you never use. Now, there’s a variety of swing-out shelving units made just for blind cabinets. Useful space…how smart is that?

Easy to access kitchen storage from StarMark Cabinetry.

StarMark’s towel storage can be designed into your new cabinets with in as little of 3″ of space!

Where do you hang your damp kitchen towels? Oh no, don’t say over the stove or dishwasher handle! A pull-out towel hanger mounted in a base cabinet is easy to install and looks sooo much more upscale!

Make recycling handy with a base cabinet slide-out that holds one to four bins. There’s also really cool germ resistant microfiber pull-out bag with handles—just lift and you’re off to the recycling center.

Ironing board folds up neatly in a drawer. Photo from Armstrong Cabinets.

For those of us that are anti-wrinkle ironing freaks, a wall mounted ironing board is the berries! It quickly drops down and even swivels! Presto, you’re looking snazzy and on your way in a snap.

KraftMaid’s Core Guard protects your cabinetry from spills & leaks.

Ever had a water leak under your sink? OMG! It can turn costly in a snap. Under sink drip trays are designed to protect the bottom of your cabinet by holding water. This is an inexpensive way to potentially save big bucks!

Recycle center from StarMark Cabinets.

Cabinet Colors go Beyond Brown!

Cabinets in every color!

Cabinetry colors and finishes go waaay beyond brown or white. If you want purple cabinets to match your fav dress, it can happen! Just like dyed wedding shoes, the options are endless! Here are some finish tips.

When choosing cabinetry, remember every wood species has its own characteristics which affect the stain or color hue. Maple and oak look totally different in the same finish.

Gray is the new neutral! StarMark’s Peppercorn Gray

All cabinet manufacturers offer similar stain colors—natural, dark brown, reddish brown, vanilla—each with their own catchy names. Jazz up these colors by applying a glaze for oodles of dimension in the nooks, corners and edges. A vanilla cream cabinet with chocolate glaze sounds yummy!

Goin’ for shabby chic, cottage or cabin feel? Adding a distressed finish with worn edges, wormy holes, and light chain distressing can make something new feel old and cozy. Yikes, we’ve just sanded the surface!

StarMark’s Aegean Mist is a nice contrast to the wood tone.

DSOBT (don’t stress out big time)! Come on down to Modern Supply and bring your cabinet wish-list. Browse our displays and talk with my design peeps to bring your ideas to life.

A kitchen remodel – Before & After

Sometimes after a kitchen remodel, you forget the “before” look because the “after” is so beautiful. That’s what this homeowner discovered as she enjoys her newly renovated kitchen.

Before: White cabinets in an L shape constricted the flow.

After: A mix of cabinetry finishes pulled together with a granite countertop.

The Oak Ridge home was due a kitchen remodel. The cabinetry was worn and countertops dated. The homeowner also wanted to change the traffic flow for a more open space. A door to an adjoining room was moved and a pass-through cut for a more open feel. The L-shape of the counter was removed and the sink relocated under the pass-through.

Before kitchen remodel

When selecting cabinetry, the homeowner knew she wanted a light color but looked to the expertise of Modern Supply’s design team for their recommendations. After looking at several options, plans were drawn and selections finalized.

Kitchen after remodel with arched doorway

After: An open arched doorway replaces a swing door

StarMark Cabinetry was chosen for their superior construction, quality of finishes and selection of door styles and finishes. The primary cabinets are maple finished in buttercream with a chocolate glaze. Sounds good enough to eat!

A bit skeptical, the homeowner agreed to the suggestion of a second finish for the island. The same door style was used but in cherry with a toffee finish and chocolate glaze. She’s thrilled with the outcome and it complements the buttercream finish. Both finishes are pulled together with a gorgeous granite countertop.

After: Drab turned to glam!

Little extras add so much in for a more polished look and extra convenience. Light rail below the cabinets help conceal under counter lighting; crown rail finishes the cabinet tops; finished end panels match the doors for a refined look; corner drawer storage; spice racks; utensil drawer; and vertical storage for cookie sheets all maximize space and a finishing touch.

Pleased with the outcome, the family is enjoying the new kitchen and space arrangement. On to the next project…I believe there are workers on the deck today!

Kitchen Island Trends

Kitchens are the hub of the home and are used for more than preparing meals. Areas for doing homework, electronic docking stations and desk space are often included. Even when entertaining, everyone seems to congregate in the kitchen.

Island by KraftMaid with prep sink, recycle center, shelving, drawers, cabinet & wine storage.

Have idea? We can draw it!

The kitchen island is a centerpiece and should stand out. The countertop, base cabinetry and hardware can be different from the rest of the cabinetry but should coordinate. What a great place to add a bold pop of color and a striking lighting fixture!

Armstrong Cabinets maximize space with this island backed with seating.

Island design elements are endless! From small and simple to large and multi-faceted, choose from features like pull-out storage, shelving, glass doors, decorative posts, corbels & legs, and wine storage. Cook tops, dishwashers, wine coolers and prep sinks are often installed in the island area. Don’t forget to add electrical outlets!

Multi-tiered island adds interest from Armstrong Cabinets.

When thinking about designing your island, space guidelines from the National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends at least 42 inches of aisle space surrounding an island, and 48 inches if there are multiple cooks. Counter heights are 36 inches and breakfast bar height is typically 40 to 42 inches.

A bold statement in mixing finishes from KraftMaid.

Are you ready to get started on your island project? Stop by Modern Supply and look at their kitchen displays for inspiration. Design consultants are ready to help you create your dream island.

865.966.4567 • Locations

From StarMark Cabinetry, a non-standard shape with decorative corbels.

A small island is perfect for this cottage kitchen by StarMark.

Armstrong Cabinets • KraftMaid • StarMark Cabinetry

Bathroom Furniture Trends

Design for your space with semi-custom cabinetry from KraftMaid.

The custom cabinetry folks provide the widest choices in size, wood, finishes and cool storage features. Pull-outs designed specifically for hair dryers, curling irons and make-up is a diva dream! Snazzy touches like crown molding, glass doors, decorative cabinetry legs and specialty towel cubes add a timeless touch. The sky’s the limit on customizing!

Hide bathroom clutter with storage options from Starmark Cabinetry.

Vanities and matching bath furnishings are hot, hot, hot! Available in pre-determined sizes, these spa-like pieces create an uncluttered, streamlined look. They’re ideal for a powder room! There’s flexibility in sink choices too—a one piece countertop with an integrated sink or a jazzy vessel sink can complete the look. Towel towers, wall cabinets and mirrors add extra storage and are super cute.

My stars! Did you ever think medicine cabinets would make a come-back? They’re not just an old, squeaky metal cabinet anymore. Stunning wooden medicine and overjohn cabinets complement vanities and provide extra storage. A fab piece for a small area!

Wall hung vanities & matching mirrors from American Standard’s Tropic collection.

Take your bathroom from drab to glam! Drop by Modern Supply and let our top-notch designers show you what dream baths are made of.

Stunning double vanity & matching mirror from Ronbow.

American Standard’s Cambridge vessel sink vanity.

Add a splash of color with this Yosemite vanity.

Traditional style vanity & matching cabinet from Ronbow

Adding the Extra Pizazz to Cabinetry!

Mix wood, finishes, door styles & hardward for a unique look.

Selecting new cabinetry is exciting but can leave you in a tizzy. You’ve sorted through all of the wood and door styles, finishes, glazes, and storage options but there’s more! Here are ideas to really add that extra pizazz!

Doors: They’re not just wood anymore! I love mixing wooden and glass doors. Glass brightens and makes a space appear larger. Back-light for a major WOW factor! Loads of glass options in textured, etched and patterned. Get really inventive using cut glass and zinc caming—similar to stained glass.

StarMark corner cabinet with metal doors is great use of space.

Another artsy door has wooden mullion strips to divide the glass areas forming a design. Doors with woven metal inserts create a classy or even a shabby chic look. Contemporary aluminum framing with glass might be totally you! Whew!

Hardware: Changing knobs and pulls is easy, affordable and will totally change the look of cabinets. Don’t be afraid to mix ‘n match. Go for it!

KraftMaid door using zinc caming & decorative glass.

Decorative enhancements: Endless possibilities! Crown, light rail and baseboard molding conveys a finished look. Adding legs gives the appearance of fine furniture. Attaching spindles at the end of a peninsula, allows for a countertop extension. Corbels and onlays are great embellishments for an upscale detailed look.

Changing hardware is an easy cabinet update.

Just want to update? New doors, hardware and lighting will breathe life into an old cabinet. It’s hot to mix finishes. Wood stains and paint finishes are fab together. Be eclectic!

Oh my, the choices just keep coming! This is a smidge of what my Modern Supply design peeps use to create snazzy, jazzy kitchens…or baths…laundry rooms…or office/entertainment areas. Come on in and…

Tell ‘em Millie sent you!

Tons of storage options like this StarMark pantry.

A cabinet door with wire mesh creates homey feel.

This KraftMaid tulip leg gives cabinetry a fine furniture feel.

This KraftMaid onlay & crown add a decorative touch.

Glass doors with lighting, spindle legs, decorative fillers, onlays & corbels – this KraftMaid kitchen has it all!

Kitchen Remodel? Start Here!

StarMark Mix of Cherry with White Island

Add pizazz by mixing cabinetry finishes like cherry cabinets with a white island from StarMark.

Have you been dreaming about a new kitchen and now you’re ready to take the plunge? Congrats! A kitchen remodel is the improvement project that increases your home’s value the most.

Where, oh where, do you start? Here are a couple of tips.

* Establish a budget
* Make a list of your top must-haves
* Clip photos of things you like

Got it together? Now it’s time to see an expert…that would be me or one of my Modern Supply design peeps. We can help:

Urban chic maple cabinets in a bold cardinal red from KraftMaid.

* Define your space
* Explain your options
* Select the right products
* Help with details
* Measure your space
* Design your kitchen
* Suggest alternative design options
* Work within your budget
* Coordinate delivery with contractor

Presto! Your glam-tastic kitchen is installed and ready for years of enjoyment. So DSOBT (don’t stress out big time) over your kitchen remodel! Come on in and…

Tell ‘em Millie sent you!

Patience — the Key to Remodeling

Modern Supply Client Spotlight

If you’re planning a remodeling project, patience is key. Remodeling can be stressful and full of surprises. Focusing on your completed vision makes it all worthwhile. Modern Supply’s clients, Pete & Hiral Lloyd-Jones, can testify to the challenges of living through a kitchen remodeling project.

The Lloyd-Jones’ 1970’s kitchen needed an update−especially the dated appliances. The project evolved from updating appliances to a complete remodel when they discovered the built-in oven size was no longer available.

Hiral commented, “I had a vision of my dream kitchen.” She considered their lifestyle, likes and dislikes of the existing kitchen, budget and future resell value when developing her design. After doing on-line research and talking with Modern Supply’s designer, Debbie Johnson, design objectives included:

– Lighten the kitchen
– Mix a cozy, county style with contemporary elements
– Create a warm, earthy feel
– Improve space functionality
– Maximize budget by doing some work themselves

A mix of country & contemporary for a cozy kitchen feel.

Cabinetry is a kitchen’s focal point and the foundation of a remodel. “I was tired of dark wood and paint. I wanted a lighter finish, to add color and incorporate unique elements,” Hiral said. A maple wood finished in vanilla cream with a caramel glaze detailing was perfect. For a cozy earthy touch, a second finish of mossy green was incorporated. Granite countertops in peacock green—a dark, rich color—pulled the two finishes together. A backsplash of white subway tiles with dark green accents continued to complement the cabinetry and granite.

The open doors & shelving adds a unique touch.

Earthy, brown slate flooring complete with a cable heating system complements the overall design while increasing winter comfort. Lighting included a mix of new recessed and pendants. Oil rubbed bronze pendant lights inserted a classic touch.

Pete & Hiral share advice for homeowners considering a remodeling project. “The best advice is to have patience,” Hiral says. “A remodel doesn’t happen overnight and can be stressful for everyone. Be prepared for dust—it was everywhere. Expect the unexpected. You don’t know what lies behind the wall or under the flooring. Also, purchase the best quality cabinetry your budget will allow. Features like dovetail joints make a difference.”

Lovin’ this Porcher Farm Sink!

Pete adds, “If you’re trying to stretch the budget, choose the projects you undertake carefully. Make sure you’re up for the task. We removed the old tile, painted and laid the heating cables ourselves. I also sold our old cabinetry on-line.”

Would they do anything differently? Hiral states, “I

Kitchen remodel with Pete & Hiral Lloyd-Jones

View HGTV videos on the Lloyd-Jones’ kitchen remodel

love all of my choices and would not change anything. We enjoy the kitchen and spend more time in it. It’s rewarding to see our friends reaction when they see the kitchen for the first time.”

HGTVremodels.com did a series of 4 videos with the home owners & Modern Supply. View videos

About Modern Supply

About Millie

Hot Kitchen & Bath Trends

Part Visionary, Part Realist

Kitchen Storage Solutions

Cabinet Colors go Beyond Brown!

A kitchen remodel – Before & After

Kitchen Island Trends

Bathroom Furniture Trends

Adding the Extra Pizazz to Cabinetry!

Kitchen Remodel? Start Here!

Patience — the Key to Remodeling

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